Quantity Surveyor

O'Neill & Brennan - Taunton; Exeter; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading national housebuilder is seeking a proactive Quantity Surveyor to join their commercial team in Exeter. You will manage the entire commercial lifecycle of high-volume residential developments, focusing on cost control and profitability. The role requires strong negotiation skills, experience in the housing sector, and proficiency in COINS software. Competitive salary packages and growth opportunities are offered, alongside flexible work arrangements.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Company car / allowance

Private healthcare

Pension scheme

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Quantity Surveyor in the residential housebuilding sector.
• Strong proficiency in COINS software for financial reporting, budgeting, and analytics.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across Devon sites.

Responsibilities

• Preparing and managing detailed budgets, valuations, and cost forecasts for residential sites.
• Leading procurement activities: sourcing subcontractors and negotiating contracts.
• Conducting value engineering exercises to identify innovative cost-saving measures.
• Utilising COINS software to track expenditures and generate insightful reports.

Skills

Cost management

Negotiation skills

Analytical mindset

Financial reporting

Education

RICS accredited degree or MRICS / APC

Tools

COINS software

Job description

Quantity Surveyor - Exeter, Devon

Join a Leading 5-Star National Housebuilder – Shape the Future of Homes in the South West

Are you a proactive Quantity Surveyor with a passion for driving the efficiency and profitability of high-volume residential developments? Do you excel at turning data into pounds, spotting savings opportunities, and ensuring every project delivers maximum value? If so, our prestigious 5-star national housebuilder client is seeking a talented professional like you to join their tight-knit commercial team in the vibrant Exeter, Devon area. With a reputation for award-winning homes and sustainable communities, they are at the forefront of the UK’s housing market and are ready to invest in your growth as part of their ambitious expansion strategy.

The Role : Drive Profitability on Iconic Developments

As a key player in their Exeter team, you’ll take ownership of the commercial lifecycle for leading multi-phase developments, from tender to handover. Reporting to the Regional Commercial Manager, you’ll collaborate with site teams, procurement experts, and design leads to deliver homes that make customers smile whilst safeguarding the bottom line. This is a hands‑on role where your expertise in cost control will directly impact on the region’s success.

Key Responsibilities Include :

• Preparing and managing detailed budgets, valuations, and cost forecasts for residential sites, ensuring alignment with project timelines and quality standards.
• Leading procurement activities: sourcing subcontractors, negotiating contracts, and processing variations to secure best‑in‑class pricing and terms.
• Conducting value engineering exercises to identify innovative cost‑saving measures without compromising on build quality or customer satisfaction.
• Utilising COINS financial management and reporting software to track expenditures, generate insightful reports, and perform real‑time reconciliations between planned and actual costs.
• Analysing cash flows, mitigating risks, and maximising profits through proactive monitoring of site progress and market trends.
• Mentoring junior team members and contributing to cross‑functional meetings to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Ensuring full compliance with industry regulations, health & safety standards, and internal policies.

What We’re Looking For : Your Edge in Cost Management

• Proven experience as a Quantity Surveyor in the residential housebuilding sector, ideally with exposure to large‑scale developments (100+ units).
• Strong proficiency in COINS software for financial reporting, budgeting, and analytics – you’ll be our go‑to expert for leveraging its full capabilities.
• A sharp, analytical mindset with a track record of delivering tangible cost savings and profit enhancements through creative problem‑solving.
• Excellent negotiation skills and a collaborative approach, with the ability to build strong relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Relevant qualifications (e.g., RICS accredited degree or MRICS / APC level) and a solid understanding of current building regulations, NHBC standards, and sustainable practices.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across Devon sites as needed.

What’s On Offer : Reward, Growth, and Balance

Committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering more than just a job, the company is focused on building meaningful, fulfilling careers for their teams :

• Competitive Salary : £60,(Apply online only) – £70,(Apply online only) (DOE) + performance‑based annual bonus.
• Comprehensive Benefits : Company car / allowance, private healthcare, pension scheme, life assurance, and on starting 26 days’ holiday plus bank holidays.
• Career Development : Genuine progression pathways, including funded professional qualifications, leadership training, and exposure to national projects.
• Work‑Life Harmony : Flexible hybrid working options, supportive team environment, and social events to celebrate wins.
• Perks : Cycle‑to‑work scheme, discounted home purchases, and ongoing learning via our in‑house academy.

Exeter isn’t just a location – it’s a gateway to Devon’s stunning landscapes, with easy commutes and a thriving local scene. Please send your CV if you wish to play a pivotal role in creating communities that last, whilst advancing your expertise in a company that’s as invested in your success as you are.

O’Neill and Brennan values diversity and promotes equality. All individuals will be treated in a fair and equal manner and in accordance with the law regardless of gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation.